RACHEL LINDER
ATLANTA & SAVANNAH WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHER

There are few venues as breathtaking as The Ocean Course at Kiawah Island Golf Resort. With sweeping views of the Atlantic Ocean and a championship golf course, it’s easy to see why so many couples choose this iconic destination for their wedding weekend. As a Kiawah Island wedding photographer, I love venues that feel as timeless as The Ocean Course does.

Every detail at Sam and Morgan’s April wedding was perfect! The wedding had a classic blue and white palette, including their invitation suite, florals and personalized details. Their celebration was sophisticated without being overly formal, and every choice complemented the natural beauty of the venue.

If you’re considering a Kiawah Ocean Course wedding, here’s why this incredible venue continues to be one of my favorites.

Why Choose a Kiawah Ocean Course Wedding?

The Ocean Course is one of the most recognizable venues on the East Coast, and for good reason. Originally designed by Pete Dye, the course has hosted legendary events including the 1991 Ryder Cup and the 2012 PGA Championship. 

Today, it offers couples an equally unforgettable setting for one of the biggest days of their lives. The clubhouse, where weddings take place, overlooks the famous 18th hole with panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean beyond it.  Personally, I love the coastal architecture, wraparound veranda, and beautifully manicured grounds.

Sam and Morgan’s Kiawah Ocean Course Wedding

From the beginning of the day, every detail reflected Sam and Morgan’s vision of an elegant coastal celebration. Their blue and white color palette carried beautifully throughout every part of the wedding. The bridesmaids wore mismatched blue and floral print dresses. The groom chose a dark navy tuxedo, which created a subtle contrast against his groomsmen in classic black tuxedos. Everything was perfectly suited for a seaside celebration!

The ceremony took place overlooking the eighteenth hole with the Atlantic Ocean behind it. We had perfect weather with sunshine, comfortable temperatures, and just enough breeze. 

After portraits around the property, guests gathered for cocktail hour before making their way to the reception space on the lawn. 

One of my favorite moments from the evening was Sam and Morgan’s first dance on the wraparound porch. As the sun set, the string lights above the reception came on and the atmosphere became even more romantic. They ended the evening with a joyful pom pom send-off that perfectly matched the fun and relaxed energy of the day.

Ceremony and Reception Options for a Kiawah Ocean Course Wedding

One of the biggest advantages of hosting your wedding here is the variety of event spaces available.

The Ocean Course Lawn

The lawn is the most iconic ceremony location on the property. You can exchange vows overlooking the eighteenth green with ocean views in the background. It’s great for ceremonies, cocktail hours, and tented receptions.

The Atlantic Room

Perfect for weddings of up to 120 guests, The Atlantic Room features spectacular ocean views along with a spacious veranda just steps from the coastline. Couples hosting larger celebrations can pair the restaurant with a tented lawn reception for up to 300 guests.

Full Clubhouse Buyout

For larger celebrations, couples can reserve the entire clubhouse, including both The Atlantic Room and Ryder Cup Bar. This option allows for indoor dinners with more than 200 guests.

The PGA Room

Located on the second floor, the PGA Room offers panoramic golf course and ocean views. It’s an excellent option for intimate receptions of around 80 guests and includes an adjoining foyer that works perfectly for cocktail hour.

Private Dining Room

For rehearsal dinners or intimate celebrations with close family and friends, the Private Dining Room accommodates up to 20 guests while still offering access to the beautiful veranda overlooking the grounds.

What Makes a Kiawah Ocean Course Wedding So Unique?

The views are certainly unforgettable, but what truly sets this venue apart is the complete resort experience. Instead of gathering for only one evening, couples and guests can turn their wedding into an entire weekend together. Between championship golf, relaxing spa treatments, beach time, family activities, oyster roasts, bonfires, and world-class dining, there is something for every guest to enjoy throughout the celebration.

Another feature I love is the flexibility. Couples are able to customize nearly every aspect of their reception, including a personalized menu created alongside the resort’s culinary team. Whether you envision an elegant plated dinner, creative food stations, or a Southern-inspired buffet, you can tailor the menu to fit your vision.

Favorite Photo Locations at The Ocean Course

There are so many great photo locations at The Ocean Course. Here are some of my favorites:

– The ceremony lawn offers sweeping ocean views that are especially beautiful during golden hour.

– The wraparound veranda provides classic coastal architecture and beautiful shade throughout the afternoon. It’s a great portrait location regardless of the weather.

– The eighteenth hole (with my drone) showcases the scale and beauty of the property.

Insider Tips for Planning a Kiawah Ocean Course Wedding

After photographing weddings at The Ocean Course, here are my top tips for couples planning their wedding there.

Plan Time for Sunset Portraits

The views overlooking the Atlantic Ocean are one of the biggest reasons couples choose The Ocean Course. I always recommend setting aside 15 to 20 minutes around sunset for portraits. 

Consider a Full Wedding Weekend

One of the biggest advantages of getting married at Kiawah Island Golf Resort is that it feels like a true destination experience. Many couples host welcome parties, rehearsal dinners, farewell brunches, or casual beach gatherings throughout the weekend so they can spend more quality time with family and friends.

Prepare for Coastal Weather

Even on beautiful days, the breeze coming off the ocean can be stronger than expected. If you’re planning an outdoor ceremony, talk with your florist about arrangements that can withstand the wind, and consider hairstyles that hold up well in coastal conditions.

Trust the Resort Team

One thing that makes planning here so enjoyable is the experienced wedding team. From coordinating guest accommodations to creating a custom reception menu, they’re there to help every step of the way so you can focus on enjoying your engagement.

Kiawah Ocean Course Wedding Cost

Wedding pricing at The Ocean Course varies depending on the season, guest count, and the spaces you reserve. Because every celebration is customized, couples should contact the resort directly for the most current pricing and availability.

Your Kiawah Island Wedding Photographer

I’m Rachel Linder, a wedding photographer based in Atlanta and Savannah. Whether you’re exchanging vows at The Ocean Course or celebrating somewhere else in the South, I’d love to document it. Get in touch to inquire about your date, or browse more of my blogs for inspiration as you begin planning your celebration.

The Ocean Course at Kiawah Island Golf Resort at a Glance

Address: 1 Sanctuary Beach Drive Kiawah Island, SC 29455
Phone: (800) 654-2924
Website: https://kiawahresort.com
Capacity:
– The Atlantic Room: 120 guests 
– The Atlanta Room + The Ocean Course Lawn: 300 guests
– PGA Room: 80 guests
– Private Dining Room: 20 guests
Catering Options: On-site catering and bar staff

Their Kiawah Ocean Course Wedding Vendors

Photographer: Rachel Linder Photography
Planner: Peper Events
Venue: Kiawah Island Golf Resort
Florist: Wisteria Designs 
Linens: Stradley Davidson
Rentals: Event Works Rentals
Band: Emerald Empire Band
Hair & Makeup: Ash and Co Hair & Makeup 
Menus & Table Numbers: Tru Luc Affairs